I was in my local WallyWorld earlier this evening. They have Shelf Cards/Skus for a Philips DVDR 3575H which will have a digital tuner and 160gb HDD. I suspect it will look and perform much like the DVDR 3455/37 except have an ATSC Tuner.

The second is a Polaroid DRA-01601A which will also feature a 160gb HDD paired with an ATSC Tuner. The nice lady had no info on exactly when these would arrive,but stated that store had 2 Philips and 3 Polaroids on order. The Philips was the same price as the older DVDR 3455/37, which is to say a hair under $300. The Polaroid was a hair under $260.

Do you think both of these are funai?

I fear that, if they establish a sub-$300 price point for a digital tuner equipped HDD-DVDR, we will never see another quality unit from one of the majors.

Kelson, I suspect they are made by the same people who made the Philips DVDR 3455/37 and the Polaroid 2001. I have no inside info, this is strictly a guess based on price and the 160gb HDD. I can't say for sure who manufatured either of those units.

I got to be honest, I was looking/hoping for a Funai built Sylvania just like the one I have but with an ATSC Tuner and a faster +/-R DVD Burner, and maybe a 250 gb hdd. I would buy one of those in a New York minute! : )

Do you think both of these are funai?

I fear that, if they establish a sub-$300 price point for a digital tuner equipped HDD-DVDR, we will never see another quality unit from one of the majors.
I have to agree with you. If the major manufacturers cannot produce a price competitive unit, they will have no incentive to market any further decent units in the US. This could be a really bad omen for the future of these items. Of course, maybe they see the imminent obsolescence of optical based recording media and are abandoning the market for something newer, and more cutting edge. THAT would be a good thing.

Unless the Funai Sylvania breaks down too soon, it is a very nice unit. I would be very happy to have a similar unit with ATSC and QAM Tuners, especially if they upgrade the DVD Burner to +/-R with 4x or greater burn speed.

I will wait a bit on the Philips and Polaroid w/ATSC to let the early adopters report on all the bugs. My Philips DVDR3455/37 has some very nice features, but a few to many negatives for me to want to rush out and buy another Philips DVDR, at least until I know a lot more about it's capabilities.

If the major manufacturers cannot produce a price competitive unit, they will have no incentive to market any further decent units in the US. This could be a really bad omen for the future of these items. Of course, maybe they see the imminent obsolescence of optical based recording media and are abandoning the market for something newer, and more cutting edge. THAT would be a good thing.

There's always Blu-ray or HD-DVD, whichever survives the format war. One of them would be natural for a recorder that can receive HD signals. Such units already exist with HDD in Japan, at hideous prices, but if the market for HD in the US develops enough over the next year or two to support something like this, and the price comes down, these may be the eventual successor to standard DVD recorders.

There's always Blu-ray or HD-DVD, whichever survives the format war. One of them would be natural for a recorder that can receive HD signals. Such units already exist with HDD in Japan, at hideous prices, but if the market for HD in the US develops enough over the next year or two to support something like this, and the price comes down, these may be the eventual successor to standard DVD recorders.

I hate to break the news but it is over. At least for top tier DVD recorders in North America.

Why do I have this opinion? And why have I had this opinion for many many months now and posted such? Because I read the financial statements and press releases of the top tier manufacturers. And followed their actions. If you read and follow there is no surprise.

HD DVD recorders are not "right around the corner". Technology will pass HD DVD recorders by if it has not already done so here in North America. There will be other options - MPAA options.

Of course, maybe they see the imminent obsolescence of optical based recording media and are abandoning the market for something newer, and more cutting edge. THAT would be a good thing.

Yes it would, and I have been predicting it for a few months now (along with Nextoo - see above). Lack of HDD based ATSC recorders from the "big guys", public confusion regarding the whole digital TV thing, the continuing idiocy with HD DVD vs. Blu-Ray, good quality compressed HD codecs, Tivos and DVRs with on demand PC and TV based programming as well as the increasing affordability of other portable HDD or flash media based multimedia devices vs the relative expense of HD optical media players, recorders, and media all spell doom for widespread consumer adoption of timeshifting/archiving to HD optical media - though I believe consumer burning to SD optical media will persist for several more years.

HD DVD recorders are not "right around the corner". Technology will pass HD DVD recorders by if it has not already done so here in North America. There will be other options - MPAA options.

The problem is the MPAA and other content providers, but there will be a market for HD recorders but in computers. They will be used for storage as well as editing home movies and all the other things done now.

That will not happen until the HD/Blueray fight is over and prices fall. The next step will be the same that happened with current computer recorders, a hackers holiday.

The current spat of digital tuner recorders does little to change the market. If you have a box, you do not need the tuner. I have no use for it on cable and will see no use for it after the shift since you can get a converter. Either way, I will still be recording at low def. The real upgrade is HD and more storage. The market for low def and digital tuners is not that large.

Japan is using their marketplace as a test ground, as they do with many of the products they manufacture. They tend to have many more "cutting edge" buyers than we do.

We will eventually have the capability to record HD relatively inexpensively as we now can record analog. It is all in bitrate and capacity of the media. The first is no problem, and the second is being worked out. The third is to actually have many HD signals to record. Cable companies will still provide an analog lower tier for a while just so they can charge for a digital middle tier and HD upper tier along with a monthly charge for a box, so there will still be lots to record, just not in HD.

has anyone seen any of these yet in the stores? Do any of them have the HDD/DVD/VHS combo?

The nice lady at Wmart didn't know when they would come in. She only saw the orders had been placed. Neither of these 2 units will have a VHS unit.

has anyone seen any of these yet in the stores? Do any of them have the HDD/DVD/VHS combo?
I was just in my local Wal-Mart today and saw the new lineup. They don't have any with HDD/DVD/VHS, however they do have a new Magnavox (black) that is a DVD/VHS recorder with digital tuner, for under $200. It looks like you can either get a HDD/DVD recorder or the DVD/VHS recorder from Wal-Mart.
I'm new to this stuff, so I have a couple of questions. I'm looking for a DVD/VHS recorder combo. I like the idea of having a TV guide menu to schedule recordings. Is this feature common? If so, what do I look for? Also, what's the big deal about digital tuners? I hear that's the future and without it, the DVD recorder will be obsolete in a few years. What benefit does a digital tuner have over a standard tuner? My current set-up is a JVC LT-46FN97 LCD TV, with analog cable. I was leaning toward this Sony from Sams Club http://www.samsclub.com/shopping/navigate.do?catg=535&item=341189&prDeTab=2&pCatg=5847#A, but I'm also considering this Magnavox because it has the "digital tuner", which I've been hearing so much about. On the downside, the Magnavox doesn't have a Firewire port for my camcorder, which would be nice to have. The Sony does have that, but only has a standard tv tuner. Nearly the same price for either.

Basically, you only need a digital (ATSC) tuner if you get your
TV programming OTA (Over The Air).
TV stations in the US will stop broadcasting analog signals
in February 2009. After that you'll need a digital tuner to
receive regular OTA broadcasts.
If you have cable or satellite you don't have to worry about it.
as the cable or satellite companies will convert digital signals
to analog for you.

If you have cable or satellite you don't have to worry about it.
as the cable or satellite companies will convert digital signals
to analog for you.

Yes...but for how long?

The $64,000 question.

Yes...but for how long?

The $64,000 question.

I can't afford to pay that much for the answer. Anybody else willing to chip in? :p

well the satellite companies are already all digital (the box on your TV converts it to analog if needed). Cable will hold on to analog as long as it is profitable for them and they can still be competitive in the digital market....I'll only charge you $32,000 for that answer...my paypal address is :D

I had a Comcast digital STB. Problem is scheduled timer recordings. The STB could be programmed to change channels, just as if it were a DVR. Unfortunately its programming guide would only go 3 days into the future. So if you wanted to record a couple digital channels and went on vacation for a week you could be out of luck.

I had a Comcast digital STB. Problem is scheduled timer recordings. The STB could be programmed to change channels, just as if it were a DVR. Unfortunately its programming guide would only go 3 days into the future. So if you wanted to record a couple digital channels and went on vacation for a week you could be out of luck.

Does it have a manual timer option or it is only TV schedule based??

Maybe I am an optimist. Seeing as though the new ATSC/DVDR Sammy passes HD, here http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=830743, I am hopeful that one of these models will do the same. True HD passthrough plus a HDD sure would be nice.

I was in my local WallyWorld earlier this evening. They have Shelf Cards/Skus for a Philips DVDR 3575H which will have a digital tuner and 160gb HDD. I suspect it will look and perform much like the DVDR 3455/37 except have an ATSC Tuner.

The second is a Polaroid DRA-01601A which will also feature a 160gb HDD paired with an ATSC Tuner. The nice lady had no info on exactly when these would arrive,but stated that store had 2 Philips and 3 Polaroids on order. The Philips was the same price as the older DVDR 3455/37, which is to say a hair under $300. The Polaroid was a hair under $260.

Polaroid-mania returns with a digital tuner! This time I may end up buying it :-)

Polaroid-mania returns with a digital tuner! This time I may end up buying it :-)

And returnable to Walmart should you regret your decision. I will buy it if it passes HD.

Does it have a manual timer option or it is only TV schedule based??

I don't believe you could set a manual timer. I already turned the box back to Comcast & don't recall that feature at all. The instructions actually called this a recording function. You'd select the program from the EPG and could adjust the on/off times slightly. The box would turn on & off and change channels. I tried it & it did work, but the EPG only went 3 days into the future. Of course you'd also have to set the DVD recorder to turn on/off at the same times.

I was all my local store tonight and saw the display model and tag for the Philips and the tag for the Polariod, but none left to purchase. I'm leaning toward the Philips based upon the give reviews as far as picture quality is concerned for the non-HDD model. Maybe I'll try mid-week and see if any are in stock then.

I saw the Polaroid tag at my local today, it listed: digital tuner, 160G HDD, HDMI for $258. No actual units, just tags. It got me curious so I came here to see what this new offering is. Guess I'll have to wait a bit longer.

peace.
unloaded

Maybe I am an optimist. Seeing as though the new ATSC/DVDR Sammy passes HD, here http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=830743, I am hopeful that one of these models will do the same. True HD passthrough plus a HDD sure would be nice.

Not looking like the Sammy has HD from that url -- later posts say it may be upconversion.

Seems like all of these units require HDMI to get the best picture, though, and unfortunately, not many of the reviewers are using that yet.

Seems like all of these units require HDMI to get the best picture, though, and unfortunately, not many of the reviewers are using that yet.

HDMI = better picture? Maybe, that all depends on the quality of the scaler in your TV versus the quality of the scaler in the DVDR you purchase. Which ever is the best should result in the best picture.

Technically, staying all digital should provide a better picture, but my eyes don't see technically and digital....they are still analog :p

I'm guessing that these units won't keep things all digital anyway. I'll bet good money that they'll convert the signal to analog HD, then re-encode that' They'll basically be last years models, maybe with HDMI thrown in, retrofitted with a digital tuner.

Not that this makes them any less useful. Heck, if they show up in the next few weeks and can actually record 16:9 material, I may just have to get one.

HDMI = better picture? Maybe, that all depends on the quality of the scaler in your TV versus the quality of the scaler in the DVDR you purchase. Which ever is the best should result in the best picture.

Technically, staying all digital should provide a better picture, but my eyes don't see technically and digital....they are still analog :p

Yes, if you have a rear projection or CRT based set, (not LCD or plasma, for instance), it's positioned in analog and so it wouldn't make a difference vs. component, ALL THINGS EQUAL. But several of the manuals for these recorders claim 1080i, 720p and/or widescreen ONLY over the HDMI input. It may just be upscaled, I know, but how good is the picture? And until it's tried.....

Also, some of the reviewers are hooking up to 4:3 sets. Pretty hard to project how the HDMI output would look. So my comment had to do with a large screen 16:9 set and the best possible picture from the recorder for that scenario.

Also, some of the reviewers are hooking up to 4:3 sets. Pretty hard to project how the HDMI output would look. So my comment had to do with a large screen 16:9 set and the best possible picture from the recorder for that scenario.

I have a Sony KV-32HV600 - it's a 4:3 CRT television that goes into the appropriate 1080i, 780p, etc. mode when the component signal is HD-based. I could just as well be feeding the video from a HDMI cable into the Sony's DVI input (with a $30 adapter), but my receiver only handles up to component.

I wonder if there are similar "HD ready" sets with full HDMI connectors - that might be what you were seeing in those reviews.


- ooofest

I have a Sony KV-32HV600 - it's a 4:3 CRT television that goes into the appropriate 1080i, 780p, etc. mode when the component signal is HD-based. I could just as well be feeding the video from a HDMI cable into the Sony's DVI input (with a $30 adapter), but my receiver only handles up to component.

I wonder if there are similar "HD ready" sets with full HDMI connectors - that might be what you were seeing in those reviews.

- ooofest

Most TV DVIs (DVI-D with HDCP?) are the same as HDMI, but without audio, AFAIK.

But the reviews I was talking about used phrases like "4:3 std. TV". A reviewer had a 16:9 set only used component input, not HDMI/DVI. And the new Panasonic that was talked about only has component outs, and the newer Pannys with HDMI aren't out yet.

I have a 50" 16:9 "HD Ready" TV with both DVI and component. As I have no HD tuner, I'm very interested in the quality of the pass-through on these recorders. Several manuals I've looked at say they don't do 16:9 over component, and, of course, all indicate best signal over HDMI. If it's just scaling, it wouldn't seem like it would make much difference between component and HDMI/DVI assuming the scaler in the TV was as good or better.

Most TV DVIs (DVI-D with HDCP?) are the same as HDMI, but without audio, AFAIK.

Yes, that's why I mentioned using only the "video" signals from HDMI over DVI. In this case, I've read enough about HDMI vs. component to realize that any differences are likely negligible to nonexistent in many cases, given similar quality cables and units, etc. So, I invested in an older receiver which does up to component, and all my units (i.e., television, DVR/DVDR, video game console) also use component. With my HD STB from the cableco, it's been a happy gathering for standard resolutions on up to 1080i (although, I generally prefer 780p on this television).

. . . Several manuals I've looked at say they don't do 16:9 over component, and, of course, all indicate best signal over HDMI. If it's just scaling, it wouldn't seem like it would make much difference between component and HDMI/DVI assuming the scaler in the TV was as good or better.

Sounds more like they put more work into the HDMI signals than component, essentially. Still, I find it weird that they wouldn't do 16:9 over component . . . what's the point of offering that connection type with such a limitation, I wonder?

- ooofest

Sounds more like they put more work into the HDMI signals than component, essentially. Still, I find it weird that they wouldn't do 16:9 over component . . . what's the point of offering that connection type with such a limitation, I wonder?
- ooofest
Well, the manuals could be wrong, which is why I await more reviews (on other units, like the Panasonic, for instance, which is the one I recall that did have a stated restriction). Of course, the one I'm thinking about buying so far will have HDMI, so it won't be a problem for me (except for buying the cable). And the more I think about it, having HDMI is probably a good thing for any future TVs which might not have component inputs.

I saw the tags in my Walmart as well. Does anywhere have any more info on the Philips? I can't even find the model on their website.

I saw the tags in my Walmart as well. Does anywhere have any more info on the Philips? I can't even find the model on their website.
From one of only two listings on the web:
"160GB Hard Disc DVR stores up to 200 hours of videosBuilt-in ATSC Tuner to receive over-the-air digital broadcasts, Dual Media Recording: Guaranteed recording on any DVD +R/+RW/-R/-RW disc; Guaranteed playback of your recordings on any DVD player, Pause your live TV shows at the press of a button for up to 6 hours, and watch instant replays, Record and watch in perfect quality, HDMI with Video upconversion to 720p, 1080i and 1080p, i.LINK DV-input for connecting your digital camcorder. Movies: Plays DVD, DVD+R/RW, DVD-R/RW, (S)VCD, DivX.

Photos: Plays Picture CD/DVD (JPEG), Music: Plays CD, MP3-CD/DVD, CD-R/RW and WMA Audio"

You can read or download the product brochure here. (http://www.brightandsleek.com/pdf/PHILIPS-DVDR3575H.pdf)

Well, it is a preliminary spec sheet but, as such some things are clear and not terribly thrilling.

The tuner is clearly indicated as SDTV so absolutely no HD pass-through.
No indication of TVGOS or any other on-screen guide.
No indication of chasing-playback, or the ability to watch a recorded program while it is recording something else.

All in all a very, very basic feature set. Not at all what we are accustomed to with HDD recorders from the majors.

Well, it is a preliminary spec sheet but, as such some things are clear and not terribly thrilling.

The tuner is clearly indicated as SDTV so absolutely no HD pass-through.
No indication of TVGOS or any other on-screen guide.
No indication of chasing-playback, or the ability to watch a recorded program while it is recording something else.

All in all a very, very basic feature set. Not at all what we are accustomed to with HDD recorders from the majors.

If you are speaking about the Philips I strongly suspect you are wrong about several things. The Philips will likely include the 6hr. Live TV Buffer, and Chase Play will likely be available for any program that doesn't initiate from the Preset Timer Schedule. The Live TV Buffer allows Chase Play of any/all "Live" Channels when the unit is in Tuner Mode. You can also Chase Play any "manually initiated" recording.

The Philips will almost certainly allow viewing a Previously Recorded HDD Title while a new HDD Title Recording is in progress. The previous Philips' greatest strength is the ability to multi-task. You can even edit a Previously Recorded HDD Title and then burn it to DVD DURING a new HDD Recording Event still in progress. But for some inexplicable reason (Tivo Patents anyone?) you can't Chase Play a recording that automatically initiates from the Preset Timer Schedule.

I saw the tags in my Walmart as well. Does anywhere have any more info on the Philips? I can't even find the model on their website.

That's why I went to WalMart and looked at the manuals for the display models. They were behind the units, along with the remotes and all the accessories.

If you are speaking about the Philips I strongly suspect you are wrong about several things. The Philips will likely include the 6hr. Live TV Buffer, and Chase Play will likely be available for any program that doesn't initiate from the Preset Timer Schedule. The Live TV Buffer allows Chase Play of any/all "Live" Channels when the unit is in Tuner Mode. You can also Chase Play any "manually initiated" recording. No, I'm not wrong wrt what is not enumerated in that spec sheet. Yes it says all about the 6hr Tivo-like buffer, which I find a useless frill since I rarely watch live TV. If it can't chase-play a recording initiated by the scheduler, that is also pretty useless to me since that is the major reason I bought a DVDR in the first place. I don't sit around waiting to start manual recordings, that's what the timer is for. I set it on Sunday, go out to brunch with the family and chase-play the game from the beginning on my E-85. The only time I ever start a manual recording is when I'm transferring something from tape. And, although it has it's quirks, I don't want any recorder without TVGOS or some other on-screen guide -- it makes it just too darn easy to set recordings which are listed by title.

These 1st gen recorders are slim pickings. I hope it gets better in time.

I made no reference to the spec sheet. I own the previous gen Philips DVDR and am pretty sure the new unit will do at least what I said, possibly more. I never liked the fact that the Philips didn't allow Chase play of An In Progress Timer Scheduled Recording. It was a very sore point for me, but since I got mine for $115 OTD I couldn't complain too much about it.

But it does offer Chase Play of sorts. All you would have to do would be turn the unit on, select Tuner, select the channel the game is on and go to brunch. Unless you are brunching for over 6 hours you would be fine. You could Chase Play to your hearts content when you got back. BTW, not trying to sell you on one, just stating how it works. ;)

I am willing to bet money that the new Philips will allow watching a previously recorded HDD Title while a new HDD Title recording is in progress. I base this on experience with the prevoius gen Philips DVDR, not a preliminary spec sheet.

Too bad Pio and Panny and Toshi don't see fit to bring an HDD based ATSC Tuner equipped DVDR to market. Oh well......... I won't be buying one for a while anyway.

Thanks for the spec sheet. By the way the market sounds, Philips and Polaroid may be the only choices to go with if you want a HDD DVR soon here in the future.

Does Philips have a feature on their current DVRs that allow fast transfer from HDD to DVD? I am talking much like a feature that Panasonic has on their DVD-R with HDD.

Thanks for the spec sheet. By the way the market sounds, Philips and Polaroid may be the only choices to go with if you want a HDD DVR soon here in the future.

Does Philips have a feature on their current DVRs that allow fast transfer from HDD to DVD? I am talking much like a feature that Panasonic has on their DVD-R with HDD.

The previous Gen Philips DVDR allowed 4x transfer to DVD+/R and RW. It was compatible with every thing I fed it excepting RAM and DL DVD Discs.

We finally got the labels too at our local Walmart, but no units. Empty shelf space just waiting to be filled up wth components.

I am seriously looking at the HDD models with the ATSC tuner. I just refuse to pay DirecTV for minimal HD content when I get more off the antenna (31 digital channels thank you) than I would with them. And they wont extend any of the HD upgrade deals to me because I am an exising customer and I really dont want to pay the installer extra $$$ to run an additional 2 coax lines to the mutliswitch from the antenna AND I dont really want to have this huge 5 LNB dish affixed to my roof So since most of what we watch is on what we get OTA, I want to record in hi def or best picture possible other than the STD s-video output from Directv DVR

What I really want to see in these new ATSC DVD Recorders?

1. ATSC with pass through
2. HDD in the unit or at least capability of recording DVD-RAM
3. VCR in the unit (I got an assortment of copyrighted VCR tapes (wish I could transfer to DVD))
4. At least 480p DVD recording off the tuner
5. ATSC recording Hi Def to the HDD and Hi Def playback from the HDD
6. Some sort of EPG or tv guide
7. HDMI output

Is that too much to ask for? :-)

What I really want to see in these new ATSC DVD Recorders?

1. ATSC with pass through
2. HDD in the unit or at least capability of recording DVD-RAM
3. VCR in the unit (I got an assortment of copyrighted VCR tapes (wish I could transfer to DVD))
4. At least 480p DVD recording off the tuner
5. ATSC recording Hi Def to the HDD and Hi Def playback from the HDD
6. Some sort of EPG or tv guide
7. HDMI output

Is that too much to ask for? :-)

No, but you'll have to wait some.....

I wouldn't look for RAM support from Philips or Polaroid.... but I could be wrong.

3. VCR in the unit (I got an assortment of copyrighted VCR tapes (wish I could transfer to DVD))

It can be done with a video stabilizer. You might want to try each tape anyway. I bought the new Magnavox recorder and with my "Jeepers Creepers" VHS tape (original, no home recorded), it let me do a VHS to DVD dub...no macrovision protection on the tape at all.

Hey thanks for the tip for the video stabilizer....will have to look that up...any suggestions?

Hey thanks for the tip for the video stabilizer....will have to look that up...any suggestions?

I borrowed an old one (circa 199X) from a co-worker, composite only, ran on a single 9V battery, it has been a couple of years, so I don't remember the brand, sorry.

Hey thanks for the tip for the video stabilizer....will have to look that up...any suggestions?

http://www.checkhere22.com/stabilizer/
Cheap and reliable.

Does anyone have any idea if this new Polariod will have TVGOS, where I could find out more about it, and the timing for its release?

I have never had a DVR, but have been wanting one forever. After a lot of research so far, I am close to picking one. The main roadblocks that I have is in deciding are concerns over: (a) the eventual switch to digital (that some argue will make units without digital tuners for QAM and ATSC useless), and (b) copy-protections that would block recording of pay-per-view, HBO, etc. the way I would on a VCR. I seen filters that might help with the recording pay-per-view, etc., so I have mostly gotten over this.

I was hoping some of you could give me a little insight on the following choices I have narrowed down to:

1. Panasonic DMR-EH75VS or the DMR-EH55S - I have read very favorable customer feedback on these, in particular for its TVGOS system which has been criticized on other units, but apparently these have a later version that maybe have addressed earlier concerns; problem is no digital tuner

2. Polariod DRM-2001G - This was also of interest because I had read it might have a lower risk of copyright issues (have not confirmed whether this is still the case though, or whenever it has been "corrected"); nice that it is cheaper, has TVGOS, but would appear to have an older TVGOS version than the Panasonic models, and there have been complaints;

3. Sony DHG-HDD500/250 - Seems hard to get a new one now, but some may pass through on eBay perhaps, so I could really try for one; it would seem this already has the digital ATSC and QAM tuner, solving that concern, the but bummed at no DVD recorder/burner, but perhaps I could get this and feed it to a DVD recorder down the road; the DVR with a sheduling guide (TVGOS, etc.) aspect is more important to me for now;

4. Wait to find out if the Polariod has TVGOS and works decently. I am really anxious to get something now, but don't want to be stupid when it might be worth waiting a couple of months.

Any advice on the above would be greatly appreciated.

1. Panasonic DMR-EH75VS or the DMR-EH55S
2. Polariod DRM-2001G
3. Sony DHG-HDD500/250
4. Wait to find out if the Polariod has TVGOS and works decently.

# 3 is like comparing apples to oranges. The Sony DHG-HDD250/500 are HD DVR's meaning that the pass through true HD and record HD. It is a very nice unit, but no one has been able to say whether or not the version of TVGOS will be compatible with ATSC feed....since you can't set the clock manually, there is a chance that there will be no timer recordings after 2/2009...I'm hoping it will work, but don't know. Then again, I only paid $300 for both of my 250GB units together :p

When I want to archive a show I've recorded off the DHG-HDD250, I simply output it over s-video to my Panasonic DMR-E80H and record there. It works very well and I'm happy with the results.

Regarding the Polaroid, there are a couple of threads on it in this forum.

...no one has been able to say whether or not the version of TVGOS will be compatible with ATSC feed....since you can't set the clock manually, there is a chance that there will be no timer recordings after 2/2009...I'm hoping it will work, but don't know...When I want to archive a show I've recorded off the DHG-HDD250, I simply output it over s-video to my Panasonic DMR-E80H and record there. It works very well and I'm happy with the results.

How does the DHG-HDD250 get its TVGOS feed now, because doesn't it have an ATSC tuner? Also, while I would really want the TVGOS to continue working, just to confirm, doesn't the unit still allow recording not through the TVGOS?

Regarding the Polaroid, there are a couple of threads on it in this forum.
I assume you mean the older Polaroid DRM-2001G, and I have read threads on it, which is what got me intrigued. I hadn't seen anything mentioning in a recent post confirming that it still would have no issues with copy-protection flags on pay-per-view, but if you could point me to one, it would be much appreciated.

If you meant there are threads on the new Polariod being released, which is the Polaroid DRA-01601A, then I would also greatly appreciate being pointed in the right direction.

I am new to looking through this forum, so I appreciate any help in finding the right places to look and discuss. Thanks.

How does the DHG-HDD250 get its TVGOS feed now, because doesn't it have an ATSC tuner? Also, while I would really want the TVGOS to continue working, just to confirm, doesn't the unit still allow recording not through the TVGOS?

It receives the guide date from the analog host channel (most of the time PBS). It has both ATSC (digital) and NTSC (analog) tuners. I have to make sure that my analog PBS signal is clear to ensure I get the guide data.

My suspicion is that the new polaroid will not have a TVGOS. That is just my opinion, nothing more.

Can anyone who's Walmart has had these Philips units in stock, and bought one, answer a simple question for me?

How high does the ATSC tuner go up to? I certainly hope they didn't do the...found in VCR's...181 channel tuner. I would think it would be pretty easy for them to create a tuner that goes up to 999 channels, even if they are not all used currently, they will be someday.

Also, I currently have Verizon Fios, which I am not sure if it's ATSC or QAM, in the event that it is in fact QAM will the Philips DVDR-3575H even work at all for me?

I'm not hurting currently because I have the Pioneer DVR-640H-S, and even though I can only currently record programs on it through the Line 1 input (feeding off of my cable box) it's sufficient enough for now, so I really can wait until a great HDD/DVD Recorder with a digital (hopefully ATSC and QAM) tuner comes out.

No walmart has them in stock and no one has them. They haven't been released yet.

How high does the ATSC tuner go up to?

I want to say that digital is 135 channels, but this doesn't mean that you can't tune QAM channels in which the cable company assigns a higher number. For example, where I live channel 1531 is NBC, but with a QAM tuner in my LG unit, it comes in as DTV channel 11.

Also, I currently have Verizon Fios, which I am not sure if it's ATSC or QAM, in the event that it is in fact QAM will the Philips DVDR-3575H even work at all for me?

ATSC tuner is strictly over the air. Not sure if Verizon FIOS would use the QAM method? I'm not familiar with their service, but my instinct would be to say that you can't use FIOS and tune QAM channels...maybe someone that has this service can answer better than I.

ATSC channels run like the old VHF-UHF channels did. 2-69, and that is it.

Anything else it is a "CABLE READY NTSC Tuner". That is a tuner that runs from 1-125.

The QAM tuners(which is the equivelent replacement for the analog cable ready tuners) range from 1-135.

Analog cable is just what it says it is, analog. Therefore a NTSC tuner that ranges from 1-125, will tune in the analog cable channels 14-125. These used to have different designations. Somehing like A-J, and L-P or somethign like that when there were, at most like 20 cable channels.

If you have an OLD(I am talking like early 1980's model VCR) vcr, and you looked at the tuner selections, they had those letter type designations.

Remember 2-69 is the VHF/UHF level of tuning.

If you have analog cable connected directly to your tv, try changing the source from cable to antenna, and do a scan.

Channels 2-13(whatever they are on your cable lineup) will come in just fine, but 14-69 will have snow or noise.

Now set it for cable and scan. Again, 2-13(if you get a channel 1, good for you) will be just like before, but now channels 14-125 will have their designated programming for that channel through cable.

Also, I currently have Verizon Fios, which I am not sure if it's ATSC or QAM, in the event that it is in fact QAM will the Philips DVDR-3575H even work at all for me?

I'm not hurting currently because I have the Pioneer DVR-640H-S, and even though I can only currently record programs on it through the Line 1 input (feeding off of my cable box) it's sufficient enough for now, so I really can wait until a great HDD/DVD Recorder with a digital (hopefully ATSC and QAM) tuner comes out.
The Phillips (or any QAM tuner equipped DVDr) won't buy you much with FIOS - its QAM tuner (yet to be verified if it actually has one) will pick up the same stations that are available in analog directly from the coax (below ch 50). You might get a few "bonus" chs in clear QAM. The one thing you will get with a QAM tuner equipped unit is ability to record HD - alas such a unit (DVDr) is not yet available. Currently about the only future proof solution is an HTPC.

Can anyone who's Walmart has had these Philips units in stock, and bought one, answer a simple question for me?

How high does the ATSC tuner go up to? I certainly hope they didn't do the...found in VCR's...181 channel tuner. I would think it would be pretty easy for them to create a tuner that goes up to 999 channels, even if they are not all used currently, they will be someday.

No offense but you do not understand how digital cable works. To do what you want you need something that supports cable card.

The Phillips (or any QAM tuner equipped DVDr) won't buy you much with FIOS - its QAM tuner (yet to be verified if it actually has one) will pick up the same stations that are available in analog directly from the coax (below ch 50). You might get a few "bonus" chs in clear QAM. The one thing you will get with a QAM tuner equipped unit is ability to record HD - alas such a unit (DVDr) is not yet available. Currently about the only future proof solution is an HTPC.I guess I don't understand your post completely. Verizon FIOS transmits the lower 50 channels (locals) in clear QAM. If that is what you mean, then never mind.

My local Walmart just put up the tags:

Philips DVDR3575H (Item #000578637) w/ 160GB HDD $298

Polaroid DRA-01601A (Item #000580331) w/ 160GB HDD and HDMI for $258

I am thinking if the Polaroid unit turns out nice it may be my ideal machine for that price (only $60 more than the LG).

Does anyone have any idea if this new Polariod will have TVGOS, where I could find out more about it, and the timing for its release?I don't believe neither the Polaroid nor the Philips will have TVGOS. At least not according to the pre-release specs that have been referenced here so far.

The older, 160 GB Philips model, which some Walmarts may still have, has it.

I'd recommend the EH75 straight out, but who can say if it'll work all the future boxes through it's IR blaster? I do know, from reading the TVGOS website, that they've been adding to the list new satellite tuners as time goes on, so the satellite companies are dedicated and committed to it - but I don't know how well the cable companies are cooperating.

Otherwise, it's a great unit, and it works with many digital cable and satellite boxes that are out there now. If you are using a tuner now, I'd say go with it, for sure. It works great with my Dish 322 SD tuner (the only caveat with Dish being that you do not use the TV Guide to program - it just doesn't fill in. But, all you have to do is highlight the shows you want recorded on the E* tuner, and the DVR starts and stops on it's own - it even picks up the titles. For D* and cable, you do actually program through the guide.

The other, newer units really can't be commented on, as far as their IR blaster's compatability with outboard tuners, until they actually come out. But you will have to set the timers manually, whereas you have all the ease and convienience of TVGOS with the EH75.

But then, there may very well be some recorders with HDD's coming out somewhere down the line that will record through a program guide, using a digital or analog TVGOS or digital PSIP guide interface.

Just some things to consider.

I don't believe neither the Polaroid nor the Philips will have TVGOS. At least not according to the pre-release specs that have been referenced here so far.

I'd recommend the EH75 straight out, but who can say if it'll work all the future boxes through it's IR blaster? I do know, from reading the TVGOS website, that they've been adding to the list new satellite tuners as time goes on, so the satellite companies are dedicated and committed to it - but I don't know how well the cable companies are cooperating.

Otherwise, it's a great unit, and it works with many digital cable and satellite boxes that are out there now. If you are using a tuner now, I'd say go with it, for sure. It works great with my Dish 322 SD tuner (the only caveat with Dish being that you do not use the TV Guide to program - it just doesn't fill in. But, all you have to do is highlight the shows you want recorded on the E* tuner, and the DVR starts and stops on it's own - it even picks up the titles. For D* and cable, you do actually program through the guide.

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Just some things to consider.

I second this recommendation. I have an EH75 too and it works fantastically with my DirecTV setup. The HD is smaller, but I think the TVGOS more than makes up for it. There are no limitations that I can see on how many programs you can program at once. I've had upwards of 15 shows programmed to record at a given time. I seem to recall that the Philips has a limitation of 8 events being programmed at once.

The editing capabilities on the EH75 are great. The "shorten title" feature is great for editing out commercials - very easy to use. It also creates nice menus when archiving to a DVD. You even have the option of no menu.

For me, it was worth the extra $$. Unfortunately, it looks like this model is becoming harder to come by. I purchased mine at Circuit City back in February and it looks like it isn't stocked in the stores any more.

My local Walmart just put up the tags:

Philips DVDR3575H (Item #000578637) w/ 160GB HDD $298

Polaroid DRA-01601A (Item #000580331) w/ 160GB HDD and HDMI for $258

I am thinking if the Polaroid unit turns out nice it may be my ideal machine for that price (only $60 more than the LG).

I'd go with the Philips, based on owning it. What I have heard about the Polaroid made me shy away from it.

I have owned both.

I still have the Phillips and returned the Polaroid after a week. Polaroid should really be ashamed of their 'product.' My opinion is that the tuner is far better on the Phillips. The interface is somewhat better on the Phillips. And the Polaroid just as well not come with a remote, it was terrible.

It would probably be better to wait a few more years until a real company comes out with one of these. But in the meantime, the Phillips is satisfactory.

--Nick